This is a quotation form _The Pleasures of Hope_ by the Scottish poet, Thomas
Campbell:

> ‘Tis distance lends enchantment to the view,
> And robes the mountain in its azure hue.

When we get closer to it we may find only ugly rocks, and the mountain no
longer enchants us. This is a commentary on life. As another proverb reminds
us, Expectation is better than realization. In the poem _Hymen_ John
Cunningham wrote

> So various is the human mind;
> Such are the frailties of mankind!
> What at a distance charmed our eyes,
> Upon attainment, droops, and dies.

And if distance lends enchantment, Familiarity breeds contempt.